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Making a Difference — Education

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Arisve Pimentel

Age: 22   
Job title: Cal State Bakersfield student; now studying in Puerto Rico
Family: Single

Q: What motivates you in life?
A: My family motivates me in life. My parents, Martha and Jose Pimentel, are the two individuals who have inspired me throughout my life. They have showed me that life has many barriers and I need to be ready to challenge them. My parents’ struggles have showed me how it is to live without an education.

Q: Why is community involvement important?
A: Being involved in the community gives everyone the opportunity to enhance their leadership skills that one day they can provide to their employer. If we dedicate more time in community involvement, we will be offered amazing opportunities that will open many doors for us in the near future.

Q: What does your culture mean to you?
A: I love the Hispanic traditions! My parents were born and raised in La Piedad, Michoacan, Mexico. Every year, I enjoy going to Mexico with my parents because I learn more about their family customs and where they were raised. I will never be ashamed of my nationality because being a Mexican is a great honor!

Q: Name a lasting moment that changed the course of your life.
A: I always wanted to study at another university, and thanks to the National Student Exchange Program, I was granted the opportunity to participate and study in Puerto Rico. I am honored to represent California State University, Bakersfield. Also, I will graduate with a broader knowledge of the world and a new culture.

Q: Where do you want to be 10 years from now?
A: In 10 years from now, I expect to be working for a prestigious accounting firm. I foresee myself as a full-time certified public accountant.